As we prepare our 2025 End-of-Year Newsletter, NEMRA management invites network members, and volunteers to contribute articles, reflections, and creative pieces that capture our shared journey this year. This newsletter is an opportunity to celebrate achievements, share experiences, and amplify the voices of our Network.
1. Suggested Themes Contributors may choose from (but are not limited to) the following themes: i. Year in Review: Personal reflections or defining moments ii. Impact Stories: Projects or initiatives that made a difference iii. Lessons Learned: Growth, challenges, and insights gained iv. Member Spotlights: Celebrating individuals or teams v. Looking Ahead: Hopes and goals for the coming year vi. Gratitude & Appreciation: Thank-you messages vii. Creative Expressions: Poems, artwork, photography, or short essays
2. Submission Guidelines i. Word count: 300–500 words ii. Format: Microsoft Word iii. Photos: Optional but encouraged (please include captions and credits) iv. Tone: Reflective, inspiring, and respectful
The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni is expected to grace the Network for Education and Multidisciplinary Research Africa (NEMRA) conference on Monday next week, at Makerere University.
NEMRA is proud to announce the inaugural All African Multidisciplinary Research Conference scheduled to take place at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, from March 26th to 27th, 2024.
The NEMRA Managing Director, Dr. Juliet Kyayesiimira, reveals that the Minister confirmed through her aides early this week and will flag – off the two day conference.
Dr. Juliet Kyayesiimira
Under the theme, “Develop Research for Policy Formulation and Community Development,” this groundbreaking conference will bring together hundreds of researchers, ranging from top-notch experts to early career scholars, both locally and internationally. The event will be held in a hybrid format at the College of Business and Management Sciences (COBAMS), allowing for both physical attendance and online participation.
Dr. Kyayesiimira reveals that the Conference sub- themes will cover such multidisciplinary areas as; Urbanization and Cities, Youth and Livelihoods, Planetary Crises, Social Economic Resilience, Business and Entrepreneurship, Food Security, Political Science and Governance, Policy and Policy Discourse, One Health and Community Engagement, Higher Education Management and Research Uptake, Language, Culture, Literature, and Education for Development, Information and Communication Technologies for Socio-economic Development, Liberal Arts, Socialization, and Integrated Development, Media and Communications and Clinical Practice.
Why NEMRA Conference?
Dr.Kyaesiimira says the conference will serve as a culmination of NEMRA’s efforts to promote collaboration, networking, and research dissemination among academia, postgraduate students, and practitioners across Africa.
“With a focus on multidisciplinary research, this event will provide a platform for showcasing the impact of the research we do on policy formulation and the overall community development,”
In all, 50 papers and seven posters will be presented during the conference that will be punctuated with entertainment by Makerere University Department of performing Arts and Film.
About NEMRA
NEMRA, is a Uganda-based inter-institutional network which is dedicated to advancing multidisciplinary research across Africa. For the last five years, it has succeeded at the forefront of research capacity building initiatives in the country and beyond and has been recognizes by President Yoweri Museveni, among others.
With a mission to demystify academic research and foster solutions to societal problems, NEMRA has championed training, mentorship, and research dissemination. In line with its strategic goals, NEMRA is proud to host its inaugural annual academic conference.
She reveals that the conference will have keynote speakers who are prominent researchers and academic influencers in Uganda. They are Prof. William Bazeyo who is professor of Occupational Medicine, and retired from Makerere University where he had served as lecturer, Dean School of Public Health’s and finally Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance & Administration. He is a key pillar in various public health and community engagement projects including The HEALTH Alliance and the chief of party of ResilientAfrica Network (RAN). Professor Bazeyo also serves as a mentor/advisor on resources mobilization for research.
The other speakers are; Dr. HamisMugandawala of the National Planning Authority, Ms. Mercy Kainobwisho, Registrar General of the Uganda Registration Services Board, Dr. Martin Ongol from Uganda National Council for Science and Technology.
Registration and Participation
Participants, are invited to registered for this conference with options for both in-person and physical attendance with the following persons: Dr. ApophiaAgiresaasi: agiresaasi@gmail.com and Dr. Gad RuzaazaNdaruhutse: gruzaaza@must.ac.ug
Member of the public are encouraged to follow the conference proceedings using the hashtag #NEMRAConference2024 @NEMRA_Africa on X.
First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, is scheduled to inaugurate the highly anticipated Network for Education and Multidisciplinary Research Africa (NEMRA) conference, which kicked off this morning at Makerere University. Scheduled from March 26th to 27th, 2024, at the plush Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility (CTF) 2, the conference marks the inaugural All African Multidisciplinary Research Conference organized by NEMRA. Under the overarching theme, “Develop Research for Policy Formulation and Community Development,” the conference is set to attract a diverse array of researchers, from seasoned experts to budding scholars, hailing from both local and international arenas. A few hours before the conference, our researchfind team caught up with NEMRA Managing Director, Dr. Juliet Kyayesiimira, and below are the excerpts:
ResearchFinds News: First of all, briefly tell the readers who you are and what you do.
Dr. Kyayesiimira: My name is Dr. Juliet Kyayesimira, and I serve as a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at Kyambogo University, Uganda. Additionally, I’m honored to volunteer as the Managing Director of the Network for Education and Multidisciplinary Research Africa (NEMRA), a collaborative network focused on strengthening and deepening multidisciplinary research for and about Africa.
ResearchFinds News: Briefly tell the readers what your roles and responsibilities are at NEMRA
Dr. Kyayesiimira: At NEMRA, my roles are multifaceted. I maintain robust relationships with stakeholders, supervise core operations, execute innovative ideas for sustainable objectives, set the tone for NEMRA’s interactions, oversee the Board’s directives, ensure organizational effectiveness, and manage personnel matters. Additionally, I serve as the secretary to the BOARD.
ResearchFinds News: The long-awaited Conference by NEMRA kicks off this morning. Why you have organized it at this time of the year?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: This conference marks a significant milestone for NEMRA. Over the past five years, NEMRA has facilitated collaboration, networking, and knowledge exchange among researchers, postgraduate students, and practitioners. With the steady increase in research capacity, it’s an opportune moment for participants to present their latest findings and innovations. This is important for this year because the nation is beaming with hope and opportunity across various sectors. These sectors need policy shifts that are informed by research such as ours.
ResearchFinds News: We understand you have invited the First Lady to officiate the opening. Why did you specifically invite her and what are your expectations?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: This conference is educational and therefore, falls under her ministry. We believe her presence will signify the government’s commitment to fostering a research and innovation culture within the education sector. We expect her support in developing policies, allocating funding, and providing resources to researchers, thereby advancing the research landscape in Uganda.
ResearchFinds News: How will NEMRA foster this through this conference?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: Through this conference, NEMRA aims to catalyze collaboration, engagement, and knowledge exchange. We envision participants gaining valuable insights through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, ultimately contributing to the advancement of research and innovation in Africa. These presentations will also catch the eye of different stakeholders in the public and private sectors.
ResearchFinds News: Is this conference going to be attended by researchers and academicians? Who else and what are the expectations?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: Yes, the conference will attract a diverse audience, including researchers, academicians, practitioners, and policy implementers. We anticipate vibrant discussions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and the formation of partnerships that will drive impactful research outcomes and inform policy and practice across various sectors.
ResearchFinds News: We realize NEMRA has a Continental focus. What is the reach and footprint of this organization?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: NEMRA boasts a global network of researchers, with institutional members such as South East Technological University (SETU) from Ireland and Muteesa 1 Royal University, along with individual members spanning continents. Our reach extends beyond geographical boundaries, facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange on a global scale.
ResearchFinds News: What does it take for one to be a member and what are the benefits?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: Membership in NEMRA involves an annual or life fee, offering a plethora of benefits. Individual annual membership is UGX 100,000/= or the equivalent in another currency. The life membership fee is UGX 2,000,000/= or the equivalent in another currency. The annual institutional membership fee is UGX 1,000,000/= or the equivalent in another currency for international institutions. Members enjoy decision-making participation, access to resources, involvement in research projects, mentorship opportunities, and partnerships, thereby enhancing their research endeavors and professional development.
ResearchFinds News: What are the Conference’s Potential Benefits to Participants?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: The conference promises a dynamic and interactive experience for attendees. Participants can look forward to engaging sessions, networking opportunities, poster presentations, expert panels, keynote speeches, exhibitions, and technology showcases. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, the conference aims to inspire innovation and drive impactful research outcomes.
ResearchFinds News: What are the five key outputs you envisage out of this conference and how will these impact policy and practice?
Dr. Kyayesiimira: The conference is poised to yield several key outputs with far-reaching implications. These include enhanced research collaborations, innovative solutions, policy recommendations, capacity-building opportunities, and strengthened community-building and knowledge sharing. By influencing policy and practice, these outputs will contribute to positive societal change and drive sustainable development across various sectors in Africa.
Effective dissemination of Research findings enhances Research impact. We therefore need to address communication barriers and identify which media formats are more effective. This will enable us create public awareness and engagement in decision making and policy development.
By Olive Kyogabiirwe, a.k.a Princess Kyoga, olive.mentor1@gmail.com NEMRA Thematic Fellow – Training & Mentorship
1.0 Introduction
This represents personal learning experiences from the five-day workshop (22nd – 26th April 2024), organized by NEMRA & EASRN, hosted by Kyambogo University and facilitated by Canadian volunteers Prof. Mike Brklacich and Prof. Dave Valliere. The physical workshop attracted over 40 participants from various universities including Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Muteesa 1 Royal University, Uganda Christian University, Bishop Stuart University, Busitema University, Bugema University, and a team of researchers from NEMRA. Appreciation goes to all those who initiated the project, the organizers, the trainers of trainers, the participants, our hosts, and service providers. Thank you for the support and participation.
2.0 Day One
Day one was adorned with inspiring yet challenging remarks from the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies at KYU and the Vice-Chancellor of KYU at the opening ceremony. Participants were warmly welcomed to the host institution but were also encouraged to find time for research endeavors and become ambassadors of the training program to ensure its sustainability across different institutions. The visiting professors, a.k.a Mike and Dave, commenced the training by engaging us on formulating research topics, navigating through literature, and discerning which journals to explore. Participants were motivated to train researchers to address global challenges from diverse perspectives, mphasizing shared responsibilities in research.
3.0 Day Two
Day two concluded the first theme of planning research with an intensive study of grant applications and grant management. Understanding grant guidelines and financial regulations of the two countries was particularly highlighted. As the trainer aptly put it, “research is not stone casting.” The second theme enlightened us on understanding our position in the theory-building/testing cycle to progress further. The project design module empowered participants to train researchers in breaking down project designs into subsections, providing necessary resources for data collection, and imparting relevant knowledge and skills for instrument design. Skills in data management, including recruiting respondents and addressing outliers and erroneous responses, were underscored.
4.0 Day Three
The third theme centered on sharing research, where participants reflected on experiences and deliberated on reasons and methods for participating in conferences. Dynamics of poster presentations and slide design were also explored. The visiting professors elucidated the journal writing process from conceptualization to publication, emphasizing the importance of abstract inclusion. It was unanimously agreed that writing alone is arduous, with encouragement to aim for A-class journals.
5.0 Day Four
The career development theme, through modules on time management, raising one’s profile, and contributing to the academy, equipped us with networking and collaboration skills, personal branding techniques, and insights into pursuing advanced degrees. Participants were urged to cultivate relevant support skills, recognizing the importance of self-care and work-life balance for researchers.
6.0 Day Five
The workshop concluded with discussions on sustainability strategies for the ECRU initiative. While participants found the content fitting with relevant sessions, suggestions were made for more practical training and increased time allocation for researcher training. Reporting and engagement of key stakeholders in different institutions were identified as imperative for transferring acquired knowledge and skills. Participants also committed to initiating grant writing for financial support of the program. Each day’s training commenced with reflective and interactive recaps of the previous day’s activities, with module evaluations conducted to gather important feedback. Prof. Obua (Dean of the Postgraduate School at Kyambogo University) closed the workshop by emphasizing the importance of making money in research and positioning oneself strategically to avoid life’s uncertainties.
7.0 Way Forward
Moving forward, I urge all NEMRA members who participated in the training to engage in knowledge sharing within NEMRA and beyond. As Robert Noyce said, “Knowledge is power. Knowledge shared is power multiplied.” I take this opportunity to call upon a.k.a Senior Mentor, Dr. Gad Ruzaaza Ndaruhutse (PhD), Thematic Leader – Training and Mentorship at NEMRA, to guide us in the next steps.
Participants holding discussions on sustainability strategies of the programme during the workshop.
In Uganda, and across the Sub-Saharan Africa, we all largely face several societal issues such as health crises, environmental challenges, energy shortages, and unemployment. These issues require innovative solutions rooted in scientific research. However, a persistent gap exists between research outputs and their practical application. Addressing this gap is crucial if we are to realize our vision of a knowledge-driven economy. Also, bridging this gap is in line with the National STI System goal of “growing the contribution of knowledgebased goods and services to the national economy by increasing domestic productivity, import substitution, and exporting products resulting from Science, Technology and Innovation (STI), as well as using known technology to add value to the whole spectrum of our raw materials”.
Over time, the UNCST has taken steps to promote research and innovation. UNCST established frameworks for research funding, supported capacity building, and fostered collaborations between academia and industry. However, the drive to effective commercialization remains complex, stalled by inadequate intellectual property management, limited access to markets, and a deficiency of entrepreneurial skills among researchers.
The Deputy Governor Bank of Uganda – Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba
The purpose of this conference is to explore ways of addressing these challenges. Moving research results from the laboratory into practical application is fundamental and transforming these results and ideas into market-ready solutions is also fundamental. By leveraging these areas, we can fast-track the impact of our research initiatives, generate wealth, create new enterprises, embrace value addition, and create employment opportunities. Moreover, solutions that improve health, enhance food security, promote renewable energy, and protect our environment can be developed and implemented.
By Olive Kyogabiirwe, a.k.a Princess Kyoga, olive.mentor1@gmail.com NEMRA Thematic Fellow – Training & Mentorship
1.0 Introduction
This represents personal learning experiences from the five-day workshop (22nd – 26th April 2024), organized by NEMRA & EASRN, hosted by Kyambogo University and facilitated by Canadian volunteers Prof. Mike Brklacich and Prof. Dave Valliere. The physical workshop attracted over 40 participants from various universities including Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Muteesa 1 Royal University, Uganda Christian University, Bishop Stuart University, Busitema University, Bugema University, and a team of researchers from NEMRA. Appreciation goes to all those who initiated the project, the organizers, the trainers of trainers, the participants, our hosts, and service providers. Thank you for the support and participation.
2.0 Day One
Day one was adorned with inspiring yet challenging remarks from the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies at KYU and the Vice-Chancellor of KYU at the opening ceremony. Participants were warmly welcomed to the host institution but were also encouraged to find time for research endeavors and become ambassadors of the training program to ensure its sustainability across different institutions. The visiting professors, a.k.a Mike and Dave, commenced the training by engaging us on formulating research topics, navigating through literature, and discerning which journals to explore. Participants were motivated to train researchers to address global challenges from diverse perspectives, mphasizing shared responsibilities in research.
3.0 Day Two
Day two concluded the first theme of planning research with an intensive study of grant applications and grant management. Understanding grant guidelines and financial regulations of the two countries was particularly highlighted. As the trainer aptly put it, “research is not stone casting.” The second theme enlightened us on understanding our position in the theory-building/testing cycle to progress further. The project design module empowered participants to train researchers in breaking down project designs into subsections, providing necessary resources for data collection, and imparting relevant knowledge and skills for instrument design. Skills in data management, including recruiting respondents and addressing outliers and erroneous responses, were underscored.
4.0 Day Three
The third theme centered on sharing research, where participants reflected on experiences and deliberated on reasons and methods for participating in conferences. Dynamics of poster presentations and slide design were also explored. The visiting professors elucidated the journal writing process from conceptualization to publication, emphasizing the importance of abstract inclusion. It was unanimously agreed that writing alone is arduous, with encouragement to aim for A-class journals.
5.0 Day Four
The career development theme, through modules on time management, raising one’s profile, and contributing to the academy, equipped us with networking and collaboration skills, personal branding techniques, and insights into pursuing advanced degrees. Participants were urged to cultivate relevant support skills, recognizing the importance of self-care and work-life balance for researchers.
6.0 Day Five
The workshop concluded with discussions on sustainability strategies for the ECRU initiative. While participants found the content fitting with relevant sessions, suggestions were made for more practical training and increased time allocation for researcher training. Reporting and engagement of key stakeholders in different institutions were identified as imperative for transferring acquired knowledge and skills. Participants also committed to initiating grant writing for financial support of the program. Each day’s training commenced with reflective and interactive recaps of the previous day’s activities, with module evaluations conducted to gather important feedback. Prof. Obua (Dean of the Postgraduate School at Kyambogo University) closed the workshop by emphasizing the importance of making money in research and positioning oneself strategically to avoid life’s uncertainties.
7.0 Way Forward
Moving forward, I urge all NEMRA members who participated in the training to engage in knowledge sharing within NEMRA and beyond. As Robert Noyce said, “Knowledge is power. Knowledge shared is power multiplied.” I take this opportunity to call upon a.k.a Senior Mentor, Dr. Gad Ruzaaza Ndaruhutse (PhD), Thematic Leader – Training and Mentorship at NEMRA, to guide us in the next steps.
Participants holding discussions on sustainability strategies of the programme during the workshop.
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the New Year 2025.
To our esteemed Board of Directors, welcome to the new year and thank you for supporting the executive. Your trust, dedication and hard work are pivotal to our success.
NEMRA membership, we appreciate your support, ideas and fresh perspectives. We extend an invitation for your continued and active participation in the various activities that promote NEMRA’s agenda.
To our partners, both in-country and out of country, with whom we have forged impactful partnerships and collaborations. We dearly thank you for the support. Looking ahead into 2025, NEMRA remains steadfast and resilient in its commitment to serve its core mandate to create impact. In this ever-changing research and business environment, I would like to encourage all of us to actively harness the available opportunities, and take on any challenges but with the aim to create impactful change to the community. Put differently, let us all remember that “change brings opportunities.” This year, by fully drawing on the strengths of diversity and collective capabilities, I would like to see us step up our individual and collective efforts with a focus on harnessing growth for NEMRA.
In the last 6 months of our administration, the ExCom has coordinated and delivered impactful initiatives; monthly seminars, conducted two outreach programs/ dissemination workshops for research and research products for Northern Uganda at Muni University, and for Eastern Uganda at Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU). The exCom further organized a ladies’ breakfast meeting, and an end of year NEMRA networking function. We encourage you to always participate in NEMRA networking activities. Also, through our coordination and support, a number of research proposals are under review and we await positive feedback. Please, at least join a proposal writing group, ExCom is ready to support you!
On an unpleasant note, our network level of compliance to subscription need a push. Today, out of over 200 of our registered members, less than 100 are actively subscribed. I would like to take this opportunity therefore to reiterate the importance of compliance on this front. To encourage on this, ExCom is in the process of procuring an IT system that gives real time updates and notifications to all members at the expiry of your subscription.
In this quarter, January to March and beyond, ExCom has developed calendar and to-do list merged into one dashboard view to be populated by all Departments to harmonize and streamline operations. This will be shared on all NEMRA communication platforms for membership interaction. Some of the activities for your interaction as planned include write shop, mentorship and training sessions, winning grants and proposal writing coaching among others. Important for us all as early as now, NEMRA will host the 2nd annual conference on 1st and 2nd July, 2025 at Makerere University, FST conference Hall. Prepare your abstracts and submit accordingly.
I would like to conclude my New Year’s message and greetings by wishing you all a healthy and fulfilling year. Let us all come together to harness the opportunities as well as change, and make this a year a fulfilling one for NEMRA.
On behalf of the NEMRA Executive and my behalf, I wish you all a happy 2025!
